6 Blocks

Meryn Cadell's third full-length CD release features no spoken-word tracks, Cadell instead deciding to "find" her singing voice for this CD. While it is not instantly accessible, it is not without its merits. Tracks such as "Round Table" and "Lying" are among the best she has written, but the other tracks, while interesting, do not always work. The opening cut, "Slippery," may have been salvaged with better production, but her attempt to mix dance with alternative just makes it somewhat disjointed and noisy. This CD marks the first time she co-produced with John Tucker, and it is clearly noticeable that she wanted a different sound for this release. Chris Wardman, an experienced producer and player, helms the controls and attempts to give her that new sound, but she is best served when returning to her melodic forms, such as the exquisitely sad "Round Table" and the aptly titled "Beautiful." Both tracks feature little percussion and wonderful piano playing. Also worthy of note on this CD are the incredible backing vocals from Mary Margaret O'Hara. Cadell is to be commended for experimenting and branching out in a new direction, but unfortunately, the new sound is not enough to sustain an entire CD.